Kobe Bryant hails NBA legend on Instagram

Russell, despite being a Boston Celtics icon, helped mentor the young Kobe during his formative years in the game.

And, judging by what Kobe has achieved in his career since making his debut in 1996, it's fair to say the advice he received from resected individuals such as Russell proved invaluable in his development as a professional.

Kobe posted a photo of him and Russell sharing a joke, along with the captain: "Happy birthday Mr Russell. Thank you for all of your wisdom and the amount of time you have taken to mentor a young temperamental kid playing for your franchises nemesis. I am deeply appreciative #thankyou #happybday #rings #goat"

Russell, now 80, is an 11-time NBA champion and was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player on five occasions throughout the late 1950s and 1960s.

He then went on to coach the Celtics, Seattle SuperSonics and Sacramento Kings.

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